Special Education Instructional Aide

Assist a special education teacher in providing for the physical and instructional needs of students with disabilities in a special education setting.

Responsibilities

• Help implement classroom programs, including self-help, behavior management, and instruction programs.
• Prepare instructional materials and classroom displays.
• Maintain a neat and orderly classroom.
• Assist with inventory, care, and maintenance of equipment and supplies.
• Help maintain administrative records and prepare required reports.
• Provide orientation and assistance to substitute teachers.
• Assist students with physical disabilities, including bathroom needs and transferring to and from wheelchairs.
• Manage student behavior, including intervening in crisis situations and restraining disruptive or dangerous behavior as needed.
• Adapt to each student’s special medical, physical, communicative, and emotional needs while working with individuals or small groups.
• Supervise students throughout the school day, inside and outside the classroom (e.g., lunchroom, bus, playground).
• Keep the teacher informed of special needs or problems of individual students.
• Maintain confidentiality of student information.
• Participate in staff development training programs, faculty meetings, and special events.
• Attend annual training on physical restraint techniques.
• Assist with medical logs as needed.

Requirements

• High school diploma or GED.
• Educational Aide Certificate issued by SBEC or Paraprofessional Assessment Certificate or Associate’s Degree or two years (48 semester hours) of college.
• Ability to work with children with disabilities.
• Ability to follow verbal and written instructions.
• Effective communication skills.
• Knowledge of general office equipment.

Working Conditions

• Equipment Used: Wheelchair lift, ramps, personal computer, copier, typewriter, and audiovisual equipment.
• Posture: Prolonged sitting; occasional bending, stooping, pushing, pulling, and twisting.
• Motion: Repetitive hand motions, including frequent keyboarding and mouse use; occasional reaching.
• Lifting: Occasional light lifting and carrying.
• Environment: May work prolonged or irregular hours; occasional districtwide travel.
• Mental Demands: Work with frequent interruptions; maintain emotional control under stress.